From San José: Private Manuel Antonio Day Trip & Oceanfront Lunch

5.0 (one review) 10–12 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

one review

5.0

From San José: Private Manuel Antonio Day Trip & Oceanfront Lunch — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Manuel Antonio National Park — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

What makes this experience unique is the balance between iconic coastal highlights and genuine local connection. Rather than focusing only on destinations, the journey includes scenic stops and exposure to everyday regional life.

Travelers visit traditional roadside fruit stands featuring seasonal tropical varieties rarely exported. Midway through the day, the experience includes a rustic picnic-style lunch enjoyed directly in front of the ocean — simple, relaxed, and centered on place rather than luxury.

Guests then choose between two nature experiences: wildlife observation in Manuel Antonio National Park with a professional naturalist guide, or rainforest immersion at Rainmaker Conservation Park with waterfalls and hanging bridges. Entrance fees remain separate to preserve flexibility and personalization.

This tour prioritizes adaptability, authentic context, and meaningful engagement over scripted sightseeing — creating a private day shaped around curiosity and discovery.

Day Trips Nature and Wildlife Tours Full-day Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours 4WD Tours Ports of Call Tours Shore Excursions

At a glance

Duration: 10–12 hours
Confirmation: Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English, Spanish
Operated by: Host by locals CR

What is included

Included

Included: Bottled water
Included: Snacks
Included: Enjoy a rustic picnic-style lunch overlooking the ocean at Playa Hermosa, featuring a wrap or sandwich, chips, and a drink — simple, local, and centered on the coastal setting.
Included: Parking Fees
Included: Personal driver, sightseeing accordingly to the point of interest you want to go.

Not included

Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Manuel Antonio National Park

3 hours Admission not included

Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations thanks to its unique combination of lush rainforest, white-sand beaches, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore scenic jungle trails inside the national park, where it’s common to spot monkeys, sloths, iguanas, frogs, birds, and more, all while enjoying ocean views and coastal viewpoints. Several trails lead directly to beautiful beaches, creating a rare blend of hiking and relaxation in one place.

Beyond the national park, the day can include additional coastal experiences such as nearby beaches, waterfalls, or optional adventure activities like ziplining or parasailing, depending on your interests. The experience often ends with a sunset visit to Quepos Marina, a vibrant waterfront area known for its atmosphere, restaurants, and ocean views.

This is not a fixed-route tour. The itinerary is flexible and built around your preferences, allowing time for photos, local food, coffee stops, or spontaneous detours.
Rainmaker Park

3 hours Admission not included

Rainmaker Nature Park is a private rainforest reserve located near the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It offers well-maintained hanging bridges, walking trails through primary and secondary rainforest, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can enjoy guided or self-guided hikes, wildlife observation, birdwatching, and immersive nature experiences in a quieter, less crowded environment compared to national parks.